Welcome to Winter Carnival

Rick DeVos

Monday, February 6, 2006

Beginning as the organizing committee for the first Winter Carnival, the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC) has maintained the Winter Carnival as a service to the community since 1914. We are pleased to host the 93rd Winter Carnival Wednesday, Feb. 8 through Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006. This year's theme is Steamboat's Own Winter Games.

Winter Carnival has something for everyone. I truly hope you enjoy this multi-day event and get a chance to either participate in or be a spectator of the racing, ski jumping, chariot racing, parade with Steamboat's skiing high school band, the famous Street Events down Lincoln Avenue and the spectacular Night Extravaganza featuring the legendary Lighted Man along with an incredible fireworks display. This Winter Carnival supplement features a complete schedule of events or you can visit www.sswsc.org.

In addition to providing numerous fun-filled activities for locals and visitors alike, Winter Carnival also serves as an annual fundraising opportunity for the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Winter Carnival button sales proceeds are the primary source of funds within the event. All spectators and event participants are encouraged to purchase and wear an official Winter Carnival button to show their support of Winter Carnival and the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Buttons can be purchased at the Chamber Resort Association, Winter Sports Club, other local businesses and at most events.

Don't forget the electronics raffle to be held at the Night Extravaganza the evening of Saturday, Feb. 11, at Howelsen Hill. We have 19 prizes, including a big-screen TV with surround-sound. Raffle tickets are still available at $10 each. You don't have to be present to win, but just think how great it would be to claim your prize in front of a crowd of thousands.

Lastly, I must acknowledge the following high level sponsors that help make the Winter Carnival possible: First National Bank of Steamboat Springs, Native Excavating, Mountain Sport Center and American Express. The enduring success of this famous winter celebration is due to the overwhelming support of the entire community including volunteers, event participants, spectators, guests to the Valley, lodging properties, business partners, the city of Steamboat Springs and the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. The Winter Carnival is truly a unique, community-based event.